Yesterday, Reason Magazine posted a report by Trey Garrison about private property owners who are fighting the Army’s attempts to seize their ranches in Piñon Canyon, Colorado. The Army argues that the property is needed for the expansion of the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. Property owners, local communities and politicians oppose the takings arguing that the land grab would devastate local economies and the +$20 million annual agricultural and cattle industry in the region.

On Friday, NorthJersey.com reported that the city of Fairview may drop its opposition to the neighboring town of Cliffside Park’s condemnation of private property in Fairview’s jurisdiction. We previously posted an AP article about the dispute between the boroughs of Fairview and Cliffside Park regarding Cliffside Park’s attempt to take private property in Fairview. (See post January 21, 2009: “Eminent domain dispute between New Jersey towns; Property owner caught in the middle.”)

Statutory protection for Mississippians’ private property rights appears to be on the agenda for the current legislative session. Both the Mississippi House and Senate have recently passed separate bills to restrict the use of eminent domain to direct public purpose.

Advocates for Private Property Owners Across the Country

OCA’s network of attorneys not only represent landowners in courts throughout the country, but also advocate for the rights of private property owners. From lecturing on property rights and being active in their local communities to filing amicus briefs with the U.S. Supreme Court, OCA’s eminent domain lawyers are committed to advancing the rights of private property owners nationwide. If you are concerned about protecting your property rights, contact Owners’ Counsel of America today.